The Piast Tower is not only a valuable architectural monument but also a witness to many centuries of history, having survived fires, wars, and political and economic changes. It is one of the oldest and most recognizable landmarks in the region and a key point of orientation in Opole. 

The Piast Tower was supposed to have been built by Duke Bolko I at the end of the 13th century. However, recent archaeological research dates it to the mid-14th century. The structure was not only modern for its time but also massive – made of brick with a stone foundation deeply embedded six meters underground. Initially, the tower was part of the ducal castle built on the site of an earlier stronghold. It was located within the defensive walls, near the main gate. Both castle and tower served defensive purposes. Inside the tower were a guardroom, dungeons, a hall, a kitchen, and a chamber. The current entrance door is not original; the original entrance was in the old armory, nine meters above ground, accessible via a wooden gallery.

A major fire in 1739 destroyed the conical helmet, which was replaced with battlements. In 1906, a tent-shaped roof was installed, and in 1934 replaced with a zinc cone topped with an eagle, following Professor Gies’s design.

Between 1838 and 1855, modernization led to partial demolition of castle fortifications. The castle was demolished between 1928 and 1931 due to the construction of the new Upper Silesian Regency building. The surviving tower was incorporated into the new building, now the seat of the Voivodeship Office. In the 20th century, the tower underwent several shape changes. In 1957, it was raised by 11 meters to reach its final height of 42 meters. In 1962, a spire with the Piast eagle, designed by Marian Nowak, was added. Over time, the tower became not only a historic element but also a city symbol.

Due to uneven settling of foundations, the tower developed a characteristic slight tilt, visible to this day. A major renovation was carried out between 2011 and 2014. Since then, it has been open to visitors who can admire its history and unique architecture combining Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and 19th-century modifications

The Piast Tower is one of Opole’s top tourist attractions, fascinating visitors with its history and offering stunning views from the observation deck. The panorama of the city and the winding Oder River is especially captivating at sunset, when the city is bathed in warm evening colors.

One of the oldest legends tells the story of Princess Ofka, daughter of the Piast dukes. Ofka was beautiful but capricious, rejecting the advances of many suitors. Only meeting Prince Jan Dobry made her give him her heart. The couple got engaged and planned a grand wedding right after Midsummer Night. However, for unknown reasons, Ofka broke off the engagement and threw the engagement ring from the Piast Tower. The offended prince imprisoned her in the tower’s dungeons. He never looked at another woman or left an heir to succeed him. Since then, on Midsummer Night, the ghost of Princess Ofka appears beneath the Piast Tower searching for her lost ring. According to legend, if a woman finds the ring, it brings misfortune, but if a man finds it, he will have great luck.

Regular thematic exhibitions delve into Opole’s history, the Piast dukes, and medieval architecture. These well-prepared displays give the visit an educational dimension and bring the region’s past to life.

The guided tour lasts about 30 minutes and includes a climb to the observation terrace. A multimedia show is also presented, aimed at children aged 6 and above.